Look Like a Lawyer: Dress to Impress in 2011

Lawyers, have you made your New Year’s resolutions yet? Either way, you may want to try this one on for size: dress to impress in 2011. In 2010, we learned that the rules for professional attire have changed as to what is considered casual, business casual, and professional dress. We also learned that beautiful people tend to make more money than their less attractive counterparts.

So, with the new year, why not give yourself a competitive business advantage? Dedicate yourself to looking like a lawyer, and see where the results take you.

In 2010, most professional men still couldn’t dress themselves properly, and there was great debate over the appropriateness of fashion-forward accessories for women in court. Some may say that in order to dress for success, a lawyer’s attire should match that of his clientele—the truth, though, is that people tend to expect more from lawyers, including great taste in fashion.

Even if you do choose to be more casual at work, there are many wonderful ways to avoid making fashion faux pas in 2011. First, start with some introductory reading:

Staci Zaretsky is a 2010 graduate of Western New England University School of Law, where her writing was published in the school's law review. She has worked as an editor for Above the Law since June 2011, and her writing has been featured on other legal blogs, including Lawyerist and Ms. JD. In her spare time, Staci enjoys watching reality television, shopping for clothes she doesn't need with money she doesn't have, and singing along to Lady Gaga's latest hits. Follow her on Twitter @stacizaretsky.

Scott, I agree! I once went to an interview dressed in a suit, while my interviewer was wearing board shorts and a Guitar Hero t-shirt. It made me feel incredibly awkward. Needless to say, I don’t work there!

Thanks, BL1Y. Business casual is very hard to grasp for most people. I also agree on your tip about changing shoes outside of the office. You never want to get cornered in a suit and a pair of sneakers or flip-flops — or at least I wouldn’t.

Great post. Thank you for sharing the links. The links are really helpful. It is very important for lawyers, or even businessmen, to look good when interacting with your clients. The way you dress can tell people a lot more about you. You need to dress appropriately. Find clothes that fit you well and keep accessories and makeup to a minimum.